A spokesperson for the ITV soap confirmed: “Bhavna Limbachia will be leaving Coronation Street later this year, she made the decision last year and spoke to producer Iain MacLeod when he joined the show about her plans to leave.

“She’s been fully involved in the discussions about Rana’s leaving story, the details of which we are hoping to keep under wraps for the viewers. Bhavana is a talented actress and we wish her every success for the future.”

Coronation Street airs on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays at 7.30pm and 8.30pm on ITV.